This book analyzes the evolution of the language situation in Canada over the last 45 years, drawing heavily from census data taken between 1951 and 1996. Chapters discuss: the evolution of the English language in Canada, including the size and distribution of the English native-language population, use of English as a home language, knowledge of English among the Canadian population, and use of English as the first official language spoken; changes in the French language group and the French language itself, including the decline in the proportion of Canadians with French as a native language; the growth and decline of various non-official languages in Canada, largely influenced by immigration patterns; growth in numbers and percentage of Canadians who speak both official languages, including geographic distribution patterns, comparison of patterns among Anglophones and Francophones, and growth in the number of Canadians who speak neither official language; and the main factors contributing to changes in the country's language situation during the period in question. The text is presented in both English and French. (MSE)